Jon Returns To The Capitol

As we mentioned way back when, sometime just before the New Year our Editor in Chief Jon Richards was diagnosed with cancer. He’s since spent about five weeks in the hospital and another four in a skilled nursing/rehabilitation facility. They managed to get him into fighting shape, and yesterday Jon was able to make a return visit to the capitol. Many of you have asked for an update. For those that didn’t get it in person yesterday, here it is in pictures.

The day began with a stop in the Governor’s office:

It was then off to the House, where the Speaker welcomed Jon to the House floor. Jon received a warm bipartisan welcome from members of the House.

Speaker Ralston shares a word:

The Dean of the House, Rep Calvin Smyre of Columbus, had a warm welcome for Jon as well:

Jon got a standing welcome of applause from House members and staff alike:

Members of the Press Corps from the House side took a break for a photo with Jon:

Next, Jon went over to the Georgia Senate where he received a similar warm welcome from Lt. Governor Cagle and members of the Georgia Senate. Unfortunately, we don’t have photos from his visit, but I did manage to catch Senator Unterman with Jon after in the hall. (Thanks again to her for finding Jon a bite of lunch, as well.)

Along the way, I managed to grab a few other photos of the many folks that gave Jon a warm welcome home, including:

The AJC’s Greg Bluestein:

Colin Martin of Columbus brought a strong selfie game:

And perhaps my favorite photo was one from the end of the day, as the Capitol had begun to quiet down a bit, where two colleagues, both off recent surgeries, were able to share a moment catching up and exchanging thoughts on all the crazy things going on around us.

Special thanks to the Governor and his staff, the Speaker and his staff, The Lieutenant Governor, his staff, and Senators Unterman and Martin for helping to coordinate Jon’s visit and help acknowledge his contributions at the Capitol and to our state. It is very much appreciated.

Please continue to keep Jon in your thoughts and prayers while he enters his next phase of treatment. He’ll continue to make the occasional post as he’s able. And, as yesterday shows, you need to stay on your toes because you never know when he may show up and surprise you.